Preparation underway for Carlisle Fireshow

The centre piece bonfire is now under construction and more than 2,000 spectacular sparkling fireworks, set to music, will also light up the sky.

This year’s Carlisle Fireshow will celebrate Cumberland's maritime history and heritage.

The sparkling event will start at 6.30 pm and will be the 36th Fireshow event to be held. It is the biggest event in the region and is expected to attract more than 35,000 spectators.

Taste Cumbria will be bringing its food and drink festival to the Cathedral grounds, in the heart of Carlisle, on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 November plus live music in the recently revamped Greenmarket.

Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said: "This year’s event is one not to be missed. Along with the bonfire and a display of thousands of fireworks, the weekend will also feature the two-day Taste Cumbria event in the Cathedral grounds. Together, these two events are joining forces to create one big blazing weekend of fun for all the family."

Visitors to this year’s Carlisle Fireshow are being asked to dig into the bottom of their pockets and support local charities.

Although the event is free to attend, a charity collection is held each year. All donations go towards the Rotary in Carlisle (which donates most of its fundraising efforts to local good causes), and Alzheimer’s Society, the charity supported by the Chair of Cumberland, Cllr Andy Semple and the Mayor of Carlisle, Jeanette Whalen’s chosen charities - Carlisle Foodbank and Safety Net.

It is a family event, and no alcohol will be permitted on site or within the Fireshow Village in Castle car park (formerly known as Devonshire Walk car park).